As part of VPS advocacy for the Forces Community we would love to share a local initiative based right here in Greater Manchester. Oldham in particular has been one of the biggest regions to have served in past conflicts and this is reflected in the size of the veteran community.
Since 2017, the Oldham Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club has been a place where service personnel, past and present, can come together, share stories, and enjoy a hearty breakfast with friends.
Part of a nationwide network of breakfast clubs, Oldham’s group now has over 185 members, ranging in age from their early 30s right through to a sprightly 103-year-old. The club isn’t just for Oldham folk members travel from surrounding areas, and even Veterans from Broughton House Veterans Care Village make a 25-mile round trip each month to be part of the family.
Membership is completely free, and everyone is welcome – including family members and friends, whether they’ve served or not.
“Our ethos is simple,” says Major Eddy Hardaker, who helps run the club alongside his wife Viv and fellow Veterans Carl and Nigel. “It’s about good food, good banter and good friendship – just like the camaraderie we had during our service days. No one gets left behind.”
A Monthly Meet-Up with Meaning
The club meets once a month at The Greyhound Inn, Holden Fold Lane, Royton, where a buffet-style, fully cooked breakfast with unlimited toast and hot drinks is served – all for just £9.
On average, 60-70 people attend each month, and no one is ever turned away. If a Veteran can’t cover the cost, the admin team quietly steps in to make sure they’re fed and welcomed.
As well as breakfast, the club works hand in hand with local Royal British Legion branches, service charities and community groups, offering a safe space to combat loneliness and isolation – challenges many Veterans face after leaving the forces.
Special Events – and a Christmas to Remember
Every year, the club organises an Easter raffle, a Christmas meal and plenty of other get-togethers. The Christmas event is a highlight, but also a big fundraising challenge. A festive meal costs around £35-£40 per person, but thanks to the generosity of local supporters, Veterans only pay a £10 deposit, which is refunded on the day.
Last year, 82 Veterans enjoyed a free Christmas dinner, along with gifts, homemade cakes, and cards written by local schoolchildren. For those unable to attend because they were housebound, the team personally delivered meals and gifts to their doorsteps.
For some members, it was the only Christmas celebration they had. “It’s more than just a meal,” says Viv. “It’s about showing our Veterans they’re not forgotten – that they’re valued and part of a family.”
At past events, the club has even celebrated milestone birthdays – including D-Day Veterans turning 100!
More Than a Club – A Family
The Oldham Armed Forces and Veterans Breakfast Club is run entirely by volunteers who give their time freely. Their greatest achievement is the sense of belonging they’ve built for local Veterans – proving that a simple breakfast can make a huge difference.
Whether it’s sharing a laugh over bacon and eggs, offering a listening ear, or supporting those who need help, this club is about community, camaraderie, and carrying on the spirit of service.
“If you’re a Veteran, or you know one, come along and join in the banter,” says Eddy. “Once you’ve been, you’ll never want to miss it.”
For more information, contact Viv at vivhardaker@hotmail.com or call Eddy on 07876 077673.
Or to search for a national veteran breakfast club click here